Economies go through cycles of growth and contraction. When economies are healthy, people are spending money on products and services, and businesses are hiring more people. When economies decline, they go into recession. A lot of factors can impact an economy, which can have a real effect on consumers and businesses.

Watch the following video that explains what a recession is and how it can impact people:

• What is a Recession?

Think about the choices you make and your quality of life during times of economic growth and economic downturn. For this discussion, answer the following:

• Share an example of a purchasing decision (i.e., what would you buy) that you would make if the economy was very healthy. Discuss why you would be able to make this decision during a healthy economy.
• Share an example of a purchasing decision (i.e., what would you not buy) that you would make if the economy was in a downturn. Discuss why you would have to make this decision during an unhealthy economic period.